U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC)
The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) is a non-profit trade association that promotes the global use of U.S. soybeans and soy products. Established in 2006, USSEC works to expand international markets for U.S. soybean farmers, processors, and exporters, ensuring that U.S. soy remains the preferred choice for customers worldwide.
Core Business and Mission
USSEC's mission is to maximize the value of U.S. soy exports by creating and expanding international markets. The organization achieves this by:
- Promoting U.S. soy’s quality, sustainability, and reliability
- Conducting market research and providing intelligence to global buyers
- Advocating for science-based trade policies to enhance global market access
- Developing partnerships with feed, food, and industrial sectors worldwide
With a presence in over 80 countries, USSEC plays a crucial role in the global soybean supply chain, working closely with producers, exporters, and processors to drive demand for U.S. soy.
Product and Service Offerings
USSEC supports the export of high-quality U.S. soy products, including:
- Whole Soybeans – Non-GMO, food-grade, and commodity soybeans for international markets
- Soybean Meal – High-protein feed for poultry, livestock, and aquaculture
- Soybean Oil – Used in food processing, cooking, and industrial applications
- Soy Foods – Including tofu, soy milk, soy protein concentrates, and isolates
To help international buyers and end-users maximize the value of U.S. soy, USSEC provides:
- Market Intelligence – Research and insights into global soy supply and demand trends
- Technical Support – Advising on soy usage in animal nutrition, human consumption, and industrial applications
- Sustainability Consulting – Promoting sustainable U.S. soybean farming practices
- Trade Assistance – Helping international buyers navigate logistics, procurement, and regulatory compliance
Financials and Market Impact
The U.S. soybean industry is valued at over $46 billion, making it one of the largest contributors to U.S. agricultural exports. In 2023, U.S. soy exports reached:
- $34 billion in total soybean exports, with over 55.5 million metric tons (MMT) sold globally
- $19 billion in whole soybean exports, representing 42.5 MMT shipped
- $6.3 billion in soybean meal exports, with 12.6 MMT exported
- $3.5 billion in soybean oil exports, totaling 1.1 MMT
Trade and Shipment Data
- Top export markets for U.S. soybeans: China, Mexico, Egypt, the European Union, Japan, and Southeast Asia
- China alone accounts for over 60% of total U.S. soybean exports, importing 31 MMT in 2023
- The U.S. is the second-largest soybean exporter globally, holding a 35% market share
- More than 60% of U.S. soybean production is exported each year
Certifications and Compliance
USSEC ensures that U.S. soy products meet the highest industry standards, working with:
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Sustainable U.S. Soy (SUSS) Certification – Verifying sustainable farming practices
- International Feed Industry Standards (IFIF)
- Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Compliance
- ISO 9001 and HACCP certification for food safety and quality management
Major Achievements and Industry Contributions
- Market Expansion: Facilitated record-high soybean sales in Egypt, Bangladesh, and Pakistan in 2023
- Trade Advocacy: Played a key role in securing trade agreements with China, Mexico, and the EU, ensuring smooth export flows
- Sustainability Leadership: Over 95% of U.S. soy farmers follow sustainable farming practices, reducing the industry's carbon footprint
- Soy Excellence Centers: Established training centers across Asia, Latin America, and Africa to educate international buyers on soy usage
Customer and Industry Recognition
USSEC is recognized as the global authority on U.S. soy exports, earning praise from key industry stakeholders:
"The technical expertise and market insights from USSEC have helped us optimize our soybean sourcing strategy." – Global Soy Importer
"Thanks to USSEC’s sustainability programs, we can confidently market U.S. soy as an environmentally responsible choice." – Food Industry Executive
With a strong global presence, technical expertise, and commitment to sustainability, USSEC continues to drive growth and innovation in the U.S. soy industry, ensuring long-term success for American soybean farmers and exporters.
